Hemiscolopendra marginata, commonly known as the Hemiscolopendra centipede, is a fascinating arthropod species found in the southeastern United States. These centipedes are known for their striking coloration, featuring a dark brown or black body adorned with bold yellow or orange stripes along the sides. Their elongated bodies are segmented, each segment housing a pair of legs, with the number of legs increasing with age and size. One of the most notable features of Hemiscolopendra marginata is their venomous bite, which they use primarily for subduing prey.

These centipedes are primarily nocturnal predators, preying on a variety of small invertebrates such as insects, spiders, and worms. Despite their venomous bite, Hemiscolopendra marginata is not considered dangerous to humans and generally avoids confrontation. They prefer to live in moist environments, such as leaf litter, rotting wood, or soil, where they can burrow and hide during the day. Interestingly, Hemiscolopendra marginata is an important part of the ecosystem, contributing to the control of insect populations and serving as prey for larger predators such as birds and reptiles. Their unique appearance, hunting behaviors, and ecological role make them a fascinating subject of study in the field of entomology.